The ocotillo plant grows well in Arizona. It is a tall, spiky bush with reddish-yellow blooms. Because of my petite height, usually I cannot get close to its them. Yesterday, I saw one that beckoned me to take a photo of it.
Ocotillo Blossom, April 2020, Scottsdale AZ
This flower is prettiest in April - somehow we don't cut them to put in a vase. Like all the plants in Arizona it's telling us to keep my distance and just enjoy its beauty. Some people have a more practical relationship with the ocotillo plant - they know how to shake hands with it, and to turn it into a loyal friend in the form of a live fence.
Ocotillo live fence, Phoenix AZ
The ocotillo plant leaves are smaller than its spikes. Sometimes in July, you might think it's completely dried out and will never bloom, only to see it green, orange and red when the weather gets cooler and more humid. Ocotillos grow equally well in the wilderness, and in our front yards, in urban environments.
Ocotillo plant in South Mountain, Phoenix AZ
Ocotillo in a residential front yard, Dwight Park Neighborhood, Tempe AZ
This link in Wikipedia will lead you to more information about ocotillo's medicinal uses and cultivation.
Next time you are visiting Arizona, look for the ocotillo plant, and when you see it, send me a photo with your discovery. I can be reached any time on my web-site: https://www.talktosteffy.com
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